When you first arrive at the airport, you will be greeted by a member of Learn International. The staff member will take you where you need to go. Just make sure when you are going through immigration to have all your paperwork handy, because you might be asked to show it!
Once you leave the airport, you will go through an orientation with Learn International. We covered a lot of information about culture shock, differences between Ireland and home and what you’ll be doing during your placement. After orientation, I met my homestay family. They took me to their house and showed me around. It’s always nice to sit and talk with them. I find it helps you to get to know the family right away! All of my experiences with homestay families have been wonderful.
The weather in Ireland reminds me a lot of the weather in Indiana. It can go from sunny to rainy in five seconds, but it is super green out! I love the cool air, but it is a damp cold so make sure you dress in layers.
Although, overall nothing has been different than I expected as I had been to Ireland before, so I had a rough idea of what to expect this time around. But being here for three weeks now has been a little different. Last time I only spent two weeks on a short-term study abroad program,so I’ve have had a harder time adjusting than I thought I would because I have been suffering from a little bit of homesickness and culture shock. Everyone here has been super friendly and helpful!
– Katie May, Indiana State University
